Spring practice provides GSU key opportunity to replace seniors
STATESBORO, Ga. (WSAV) — Georgia Southern football will start spring practice next week. There are several key positions where the Eagles will look for players to step up after multiple starters graduate.
On the offensive side, they lose Derwin Burgess. He amassed 2,500 receiving yards and 17 touchdowns in his four years.
Then on the defensive side of the ball, there are two key pieces to replace. First is Marques Watson-Trent. The reigning Sun Belt conference player of the year leaves after a stellar career. In each of the past three seasons, he had over 100 tackles. He also had six sacks, six forced fumbles and two interceptions.
The other key piece from the defense is Marc Stampley. The cornerback was second-team all-conference. He had three interceptions last season.
'Thirty-four newcomers that we've signed on this past class,' Helton said. 'Twently-one high school players and 13 transfers. Seventeen of those men walked in midterm. And have had the opportunity now to go through a winter workout program.'
Georgia Southern brings back starting quarterback JC French. Head coach Clay Helton noted that this is the first time in his tenure they return a signal caller.
Here are French's numbers from last season. He completed 66 percent of passes for over 2800 yards. He threw 17 touchdowns against 11 interceptions. Coach Helton said he has seen French grow as a leader this offseason.
'You've seen his confidence,' Helton said. 'You see his poise that he shows already and being more vocal. Last year it was about, 'Hey, I'm trying to do my job on a day-to-day basis.' He had blinders on doing his job. Now I've seen him even be vocal with the guys in the workouts, be vocal, when he's out there throwing with guys.'
Here are the key dates for the Eagles in the spring:
Practice starts: March 4
Georgia Southern Pro Day: March 10
Two scrimmages: March 14 and March 29
Spring game: April 5
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Doug McIntyre is a soccer reporter for FOX Sports who has covered United States men's and women's national teams at FIFA World Cups on five continents. Follow him @ ByDougMcIntyre . recommended Get more from United States Follow your favorites to get information about games, news and more
